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Project Based Learning with 3D Printers

July 2, 2018 • Bobby Johnson

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Project-based learning (PBL) is becoming a popular teaching method at an increasing number of schools. Many of these schools are implementing PBL classes to grow and create more student interest in STEM and Career and Technical Education (CTE) subjects.

Project-Based Learning brings real-world conditions and technology to the school's curriculum and encourages students to become independent workers, critical thinkers, and lifelong learners.

I have been working with many schools in the Pacific Northwest, who have been adding 3D printers to their STEM programs and have been very impressed with the results from both students and teachers.

Pictured below is a 3D printed six-piece catapult designed in SOLIDWORKS by Spokane Valley Tech students. Also pictured is a unique bike touring water bottle holder that Salish Kootenai College 3D printed with a Markforged 3D printer.

Spokane Valley Tech (SVT), a CTE focused school in Spokane Washington, added a Sindoh 3D printer to their engineering program and have seen some incredible creations from their students. The below image is about three students from SVT who competed at Washington State SkillsUSA Additive Manufacturing competition.

These SVT students are currently raising Scholarship Funds to travel to the SkillsUSA Nationals Competition. If you are interested in donating funds to help these students attend this competition, please feel free to let me know, and I can get you in contact with their CTE instructor.

At Quest Integration, we have a PBL curriculum program called STEM in a BOX which has everything an educator needs to get started. STEM in a BOX has helped many of our local educators be successful in implementing a PBL curriculum into their classroom. If you are considering adding a project-based curriculum to your class, please feel free to contact me for more info about our program. My email is: Bobby@qintegration.com